[This information is from Vol. III, p. 147 of History of the Mohawk Valley: Gateway to the West 1614-1925, edited by Nelson Greene (Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1925). It is in the Reference collection of the Schenectady County Public Library at R 974.7 G81h. This online edition includes lists of portraits, maps and illustrations. As noted by Paul Keesler in his article, "The Much Maligned Mr. Greene," some information in this book has been superseded by later research or was provided incorrectly by local sources.]

Perlen's Optical Store is one of the best known and oldest establishments of its kind in the city of Utica. Richard Perlen, registered optometrist, is conducting the business in the building in which it was originally founded by his father, the late Albert Perlen, in 1887. The father was a skilled watchmaker, but the son took a liking to optics early in life, and realizing the necessity and advantage of a thorough training, entered the Chicago Ophthalmic College and graduated therefrom in 1894. He started by conducting an optical department in connection with his father's jewelry business, but as the demand for his services as an optometrist continued to increase he discontinued the jewelry business entirely and for many years has devoted all of his time and energy to the fitting of glasses.

As the business grew, larger quarters were secured in the store adjoining, until today Perlen's Optical Store is one of the best equipped in the state. There are two complete examining rooms, equipped with the latest and best instruments for diagnostic and refractive purposes, and his able assistants are well qualified to help him in handling the large clientele which comes not only from Utica but from many other places.

The success of Richard Perlen is attributable in a large measure to his thorough understanding of his profession and to his upright, honorable methods, which have commended him to the confidence and esteem of his patrons. He is a charter member of the Utica Optometric Association, the New York State and the American Optometric Associations. As treasurer and director he is also active in the management of the Utica Optical Corporation, which is engaged in the grinding of special lenses and the wholesaling of optical goods. He is a member of Oriental Lodge, F. & A. M., and has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite, is a noble of the Shrine and belongs to the Elks and the Odd Fellows. He is a charter member of the Kiwanis Club and enjoys an enviable reputation as a representative and prosperous business man and respected citizen.